Shield of the Republic
We're Already at War with Russia
Nov 21, 2024
In this engaging discussion, John J. Sullivan, a seasoned diplomat and former U.S. Ambassador to Moscow, shares insights from his memoir, *Midnight in Moscow*. He addresses the complexities of U.S.-Russia relations, emphasizing the importance of reciprocity in diplomatic representation. The conversation dives into the detrimental effects of Russian government corruption and the deep-seated animosity embedded in Russian society. Sullivan critiques the Biden Administration's strategies regarding Ukraine and articulates the daunting challenges of negotiating with a deeply entrenched Russia.
56:26
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Quick takeaways
- Effective diplomatic engagement with Russia requires a tough yet reciprocal approach, despite challenges from both Russian authorities and U.S. bureaucratic mindsets.
- Putin's confidence in pursuing aggression against Ukraine was partly fueled by perceptions of U.S. weakness, especially following the withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Deep dives
Navigating Diplomatic Challenges in Moscow
The complexities of managing the U.S. Embassy in Moscow during heightened tensions with Russia are explored. The speaker highlights his efforts to engage with the Russian intelligence services, specifically the FSB, and the reactions he faced from his own colleagues in Washington. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a stance of reciprocity, suggesting that a tough but diplomatic approach was crucial, even as it was met with challenges from U.S. bureaucratic mindsets. The embassies faced difficulties not just from the local Russian authorities but also from a lack of understanding and support within the U.S. government.
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